DCOTY 2011 Best SUV over $40,000 winner

The Ford Territory TS diesel, Drive's best SUV over $40,000 for 2011.

The turbo diesel-powered Territory TS, which we chose to test last year in cheaper, more suburban-friendly rear-wheel-drive configuration, was not just the standout in its class. It was also strongly backed when it came time to cast votes for the overall Car of the Year, in the end only bested by Mercedes-Benz's silky C-Class sedan.

The Territory has been a firm favourite among Aussie families since its release in 2004, thanks to its clever interior, car-like dynamics and a strong petrol engine lifted from the Falcon sedan.

That same petrol engine's unappealing thirst was also the Territory's Achilles heel, and a 2.7-litre V6 turbo diesel engine belatedly installed last year was the frugal final piece of the jigsaw. Sales have been strong ever since.

The locally-built Territory will be measured this year against a trio of Germans covering compact (Audi Q3) and large (Mercedes-Benz ML250, Volkswagen Touareg) segments.

Performance Statistics

0-60 km/h

0-100 km/h

0-400 m

Top speed

Ford Territory TS diesel RWD

3.2

10.7

17.8

132

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New car review: Ford territory dieselThe addition of a new diesel engine has breathed life into Ford's updated Territory.

Drive Car of the Year 2011 Best SUV over $40,000 winnerA clever cabin and a strong diesel engine that’s built for hauling growing families saw the home-grown Territory shine against a quality European field.